Illuminating Social Life: Classical and Contemporary Theory Revisited

Illuminating Social Life has enjoyed increasing popularity with each edition. Editor Peter Kivisto attempts to bridge the gap between social theory and the substantive courses contained in the sociology curriculum. It is the only book designed for undergraduate teaching that shows today's students how classical and contemporary social theories can be used to shed new light on such topics as the internet, the world of work, fast food restaurants, shopping malls, alcohol use, body building, sales and service, and new religious movements. This Fourth Edition is updated and revised to help students appreciate the relevance and the significance of social theory—and in the process reduces the anxiety many feel about required theory courses.